Demand Forecasting in Manufacturing Pharmaceutical (MPharma) Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana

Aidoo-Anderson, Albert; Polychronakis, Yiannis; Kelly, Stephen

Abstract

This paper investigates how Manufacturing Pharmaceutical (Mpharma) SMEs in Ghana forecast demand. It identifies sector-specific forecasting methods, the importance of accurately forecasting demand, as well as the challenges and how they can be mitigated. The key findings of the research are that MPharma SMEs in Ghana predominantly forecast demand using judgemental forecasting methods and that even though SMEs receive significant intermittent orders from customers intermittent/irregular demand forecasting is non-existent. The findings also indicate lack of historical and accurate data, dedicated/expert forecasters. Forecasting activities are normally performed by managers with adequate domain knowledge but insufficient training, and there are low levels of technology/ software adoption.

Citation

Aidoo-Anderson, A., Polychronakis, Y., & Kelly, S. (2023, April). Demand Forecasting in Manufacturing Pharmaceutical (MPharma) Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. Paper presented at 32nd Annual International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association Conference, Barcelona

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: 32nd Annual International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association Conference
• Conference Location: Barcelona
• Start Date: Apr 2, 2023
• End Date: Apr 5, 2023
• Deposit Date: Jun 23, 2023
• Publisher URL: https://ipsera.com/event-4853474